Why begin violin at an early age (ages 2-5)?

Introducing music education and violin lessons at an early age has many benefits for a child and a parent. In most cases children develop speech and learn their native language with natural ease.  This process is due important factors like a nurturing environment, positive reinforcement, observation, repetition, immersion, and motivation.  All of these steps are applied to the study of music.  Suzuki calls this the “mother-tongue” approach to music. When children of 2-5 years old are introduced to a musical environment they can develop their ear and musical talent just like they develop speech. At this age they are eager and excited to learn, please imitate, and repeat.  Children 5 and under have more time to listen and practice and can establish a practice pattern before they have too many other activities and school.

“Music is a language of the heart without words” Shinichi Suzuki

What to expect:

Listening:

Create a musical environment by playing recordings throughout the day (while eating, doing homework, riding in a car, etc) and attending live concerts. Listen passively and actively.

Step by Step:

Just as children learn to babble before they learn words, music is taught in small enough units so that students are always experiencing success.

Triangle Relationship:

There is an equal relationship between the teacher, student and parent.  As the teacher I will encourage and educate the parent on how to be the at-home teacher, what to practice, and what to listen to. Each relationship in the triangle is equally important with equal respect and communication.